Education

University of Kentucky College of Law, Lexington, Kentucky, J.D., 2008

Honors: Faculty Cup Recipient & Best Brief

National Moot Court Team

University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, B.A., 2005 (with honors)

Phi Betta Kappa

Honors: Gaines Fellow in the Humanities

Honors: National Merit Scholar

Major: French Literature

Minor: Music

Overview

My family law clients come to me with significant legal problems they want solved. The role of lawyer and confidant is to find the best solution. Often, that means working out the business aspects of divorce cases and coming up with proactive solutions and settlements, rather than plunging headfirst into litigation. The commitment I make to my clients is that I will not engage in unnecessary battles that serve only to run up the bill and decimate the assets available for distribution.

No two family law cases are exactly alike. I address each one with extensive knowledge and resources, empowering my clients to make the best possible decisions. I know that this may be one of the most difficult times in my client’s life. My goal is to alleviate the stress and burdens that arise from legal proceedings. From day one, I am focused on protecting my client’s rights and moving them through the process as efficiently and compassionately as possible.

My family law practice covers all issues related to families in transition, from adoptions to pre-nuptial agreements to divorce. I have written and lectured on the unique legal issues facing unmarried couples and am honored to have been recognized for my exceptional legal writing skills. I regularly work with mental health professionals on issues involving child custody and have acquired several years of experience advocating for child victims of neglect and abuse.

BEFORE MCBRAYER

My experience prior to joining the McBrayer team includes clerking for a family court judge, managing my own solo practice, and working in one of the oldest family law departments in Kentucky.

Practice Areas

Kentucky Leader

Community/Civic Leadership

Like all McBrayer attorneys, I believe strongly in giving back to the community. I currently serve as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees at the Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning. I previously served this beloved organization as a tutor and fundraiser. It is my pleasure to give back to my alma mater by serving on several scholarship committees and alumni advisory boards.

I routinely volunteer my time for the Fayette County Bar Association Pro Bono Program. I have also donated legal services through many other organizations such as the Kentucky Grandparents as Parents Conference, the Bluegrass Domestic Violence Program, and AIDS Volunteers, Inc.

I also have a strong record of leadership within my profession.I currently chair the Fayette Family Court Local Rules Committee and recently served on the Kentucky Supreme Court’s Rules Committee. I am deeply committed to ensuring that the rules used in family courts treat people fairly and respectfully. In 2015-2016, I served as the inaugural chairperson of the Kentucky Bar Association's LBGT Law Section, and from 2012-2013, I co-chaired the Fayette County Bar Association Domestic Relations Section. I have also served for many years as a volunteer counselor for the Kentucky Lawyers Assistance Program.

Multimedia

Multimedia

Parenting Outside of Marriage

Video Blog - Ross Ewing - The Impact of the U.S. Supreme Court Case Obergefell v. Hodges on Family Law for Same-Sex Couples

Ross T. Ewing - Attorney Biography

Divorce

At the outset of a divorce, there is almost always a breakdown in trust between the divorcing spouses. At McBrayer, our clients are seeking protection of their rights and someone they can rely on to guide them through this tumultuous time.

I encourage amicable resolution to divorce and other family law issues whenever possible. When an out-of-court settlement is unattainable, I provide vigorous, focused litigation to achieve the best possible outcome for my clients.

Throughout my legal career I have obtained much knowledge and experience in divorces involving complex property division issues, including valuation and ownership of businesses and professional practices, as well as tracing claims for non-marital property. Whenever advisable, I seek to minimize costs and maximize results for my clients through proactive negotiation techniques, including mediation. This approach not only helps keep legal costs reasonable, but reduces the emotional stress that can accompany the divorce process. In the event litigation is necessary, however, the McBrayer team has extensive trial experience and is immensely qualified to represent our clients effectively at trial.

I have represented clients in all aspects of divorce and legal separation in Kentucky, including:

Divorce litigation

Complex divorce

Divorce mediation/collaborative divorce

Custody of children

Child support

Spousal support

Marital property division

I also represent clients in the dissolution of same-sex marriages and unmarried partnerships.

I know that divorce usually results in significant changes to the lives of the family members. My goal is to bring the best resolution possible through the process with efficiency, compassion and cost-sensitivity.

Premartial Agreements

While no one plans to eventually divorce or separate, when a partner enters a marriage with significant income, assets or property, he or she needs to be prepared in the event that the relationship should end. A prenuptial agreement is the most effective way to keep individual property separate from marital property and to establish a mutual agreement regarding spousal support. Unmarried partners can similarly protect themselves with a cohabitation agreement or domestic partnership agreement.

Premarital and post-marital agreements will help you stay in control of your money and property and avoid conflict. If you are already married or living with your partner, you can still create an agreement regarding the division of property and support if the relationship should end. However, there are different rules and limitations for these types of "postnuptial" agreements, so it is important to consult an experienced family lawyer.

Recently, I have observed an influx of prenuptial agreements for same-sex couples, many of whom have already lived together for decades. These individuals need particular care and attention to protect themselves and their families. I am familiar with the evolving laws in these areas and am prepared to help create a customized agreement to meet specific needs.

Child Custody

Once a parent, always a parent. The important role you play in your child's life does not change just because of your divorce.

I understand this truth, and I am are here to help protect your parental rights and your relationships with your children. Earlier in my career, I often represented children caught in the middle of contentious custody cases, and I have extensive experience with mental health experts, custodial evaluations, and child protection workers. My background and experience makes me well-equipped to handle child custody concerns throughout Kentucky.

In all custody cases, the court's primary concern is the best interests of the child. To determine what arrangement would be best, the court will consider a variety of factors. These include the quality of the parent-child relationships, the parents' physical and mental health, the preferences of the child, the wishes of the parents, any domestic abuse concerns, and other relevant issues.

I have the detailed family law knowledge necessary to help make a case that living with you is in your child's best interests. I can also help you pursue a relocation or defend against such a move.